By ELLE HUTCHINSON
Barton County Media Consultant
During this week’s meeting, the Barton County Commission approved an equipment upgrade for the Solid Waste Department with the purchase of a new angle broom attachment for its 2021 Bobcat T770 skid steer loader.
Solid Waste Director Jennifer Hamby explained that the angle broom is used to remove mud and debris from onsite asphalt access roads and the highway area in front of the landfill entrance, helping maintain safe and clean conditions for both landfill users and the traveling public.
The department’s existing broom attachment is no longer serviceable due to the inability to locate replacement parts. After reviewing multiple bids, the department recommended purchasing a Bobcat angle broom attachment from Bobcat of Salina for $7,416.32, which was the lowest bid received by a significant margin. This option was also fully compatible with existing equipment, eliminating the need to maintain an additional vehicle.
Hamby noted that the department explored internal options, including using equipment from the Road and Bridge Department. However, those options would have required the purchase and ongoing maintenance of an additional vehicle, rather than simply adding an attachment to equipment already in service.
Funds for the purchase are available within the Solid Waste Fund, and the Commission approved the request as part of its ongoing commitment to efficient operations and responsible use of resources.